How many minority votes can stop legislation?

Answer 1

In the House, 218 votes is a majority and block the passage of any bill. In the Senate, 51 is a majority, but the vice-president can vote if there is a 50-50 tie. Also, fillibusters are allowed and 60 must vote to end a fillibuster and force a vote, so 41 senators can block a law from passing by preventing it from coming to a vote. In order to pass a bill over the President's veto, a 2/3 majority is required for passage, so 146 congressmen or 34 senators can block an override attempt.

Answer 2

The number of minority votes needed to stop legislation depends on the specific legislative body and its rules. In some cases, a single minority vote can have enough influence to halt or delay legislation, particularly if the majority is slim. In other cases, a larger number of minority votes may be necessary to block or modify proposed legislation.